A focus group conducted by Navigator Research and viewed by HuffPost reveals that Black men who voted for Joe Biden in 2020 and Donald Trump in 2024 have grown disillusioned with the president and the mainstream media. The men cited concerns over Trump's leadership, the economy, and rising gas prices, but also expressed frustration with news outlets they believe are controlled by outside interests.
Shift to Independent Media
The participants reported abandoning mainstream news in favor of independent creators on platforms like YouTube. One 45-year-old from Decatur, Georgia, said, 'I used to watch a lot of mainstream news, but they've been bought out. I go on YouTube, watch a lot of podcasters, independent — Joe Rogan, Meidas Touch. I watch everything.' Most of the men cited social media as their primary news source, with some trusting local news stations and newspapers more than national outlets.
A Detroit participant noted he trusts his local FOX station over CNN, stating, 'I don't believe half the stuff that CNN puts out.' Another participant from Atlanta, while still watching MSNBC and CNN for broader perspectives, leans toward independent journalists like Roland Martin, whom he feels 'are more likely to tell the truth with no constraints.' He added, 'Mainstream media seems more controlled now. The big news outlets seem more controlled in what they can release to the public.'
Broader Trend of Declining Trust
These responses align with a 2025 Gallup poll showing trust in mainstream media at a historic low of 28%. The trend also reflects Democratic concerns about reaching voters who sway elections. Many Democratic operatives have pointed to the popularity of podcasts as a reason anti-establishment voters backed Trump in 2024, sparking a search for a 'liberal Joe Rogan.'
Criticism of Trump's Leadership
Despite their vote, the focus group largely blamed Trump for the country's dire state. 'I didn't agree with Obama, but he is an example of a good leader,' said a participant from Atlanta. Criticizing Trump's 'anti-weaponization fund,' he added, 'As a leader, you don't put your self-interests first. You put your constituents' best interests first.' Another participant from Decatur said Trump's poor leadership has a 'ripple effect,' adding, 'All Americans are being negatively affected by this administration.'
